Political forces at a glance

Present government: Qatar is an absolute monarchy, with almost all powers vested in the emir. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani assumed the reins of power from his father, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, on June 25th 2013. The transfer of power was planned and orderly, which is unusual in Qatar, where frictions within the royal family have been accompanied by a number of internal coups in the past. Sheikh Hamad had seized power in 1995 from his father, who had himself come to power by ousting his cousin, Sheikh Ahmed bin Ali al-Thani, in 1972.

Sheikh Tamim governs with the assistance of the Council of Ministers and a 35‑member Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura). Since coming to power in mid‑2013, Sheikh Tamim has implemented two cabinet reshuffles. The central thrust of the most recent one—in January 2016—was a consolidation of eight ministries, which were combined into four. The new enlarged ministries are transport and communications; municipalities and environment; culture and sport; and administrative development, labour and social affairs.

Government factions: There are no known factions within the government, which has remained firmly united behind the emir, particularly in the context of the regional boycott since June 2017. Although the prime minister, Abdullah bin Nasser al-Thani, is an influential figure, he has a much lower profile than his predecessor, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, both domestically and internationally. Critics of Qatar allege that the former emir (who is only aged 66) continues to expert significant influence over day-to-day policymaking. Whether or not that is the case, there is no evidence of any internal tensions or differences over policy.

Extra-parliamentary forces: The constitution does not provide for political parties, and there are few outlets for official opposition. Although professional associations and societies are permitted, there are severe restrictions governing their creation, and they are forbidden to engage in political activities and are, in any case, loyal to the emir. There are a small number of Qatari opposition figures living abroad, mainly in Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Elections: At present the emir rules by decree, but the 2004 constitution envisages the creation of a new 45-member Advisory Council, two-thirds of which will be elected, with the remainder appointed by the emir. These elections have been repeatedly postponed, most recently in June 2016 when Sheikh Tamim extended the mandate of the present Council. They are expected to finally happen in 2019.